2. Connections with the labour market and learning pathways in the Dutch VET system Mieke de Haan Ageeth Nijboer

3. The Dutch system of education and training Post graduate vocational education Primary education Secondary educationvmbo havo vwo 4 12 16 17 18 21 22 higher vocational education (hbo) university vocational education (mbo) 20 age 4 1 3 2 (re)intergration and adult education

4. Connection with the labour market, On the national level through the Foundation of Vocational Education and Labour market (SBB), where employers and education are equally represented SBB advises the Minister Through sector based centres of expertise, which is the bridge between education and the world of trade & industry (facing strong reforms to become transformed in (fewer) SBB-Chambers) Through workplacement periods for all students and by taking the regional demands into account

5. Qualification Structure since 1997 (1) Courses divided in 4 levels (3+1) 2 learning pathways leading to the same qualification with possibility of changeovers: 1.School based (BOL); students, 340.000 enrolments 2.Work based (BBL); employees,175.000 enrolments (apprenticeship system)

6. Qualification structure (2) Choice of pathways is influenced through the economic situation (kind of communicating vessels) Qualification structure is based on competences, learning outcomes and labour market demands. Triple Qualification; labour market, follow up study and citizenship New initiative: Focus on craftmanship or professional skills

7. Focus on craftmanship or professional skills More lessons in a year Shorter study period (4 to 3) Decrease of qualifiactions Better mutual coordination of programs at offer, less competition among the colleges Raising quality of teachers, programs and examinations (quality assurance) Proportional inspection Status aparte level 1 (entry)

8. Curriculum Responsibility of each college Free choice of didactical approach No compulsory schedule of lessons/courses Compulsory number of contact hours Compulsory minimum of % workplacement Strong link to the regional situation and agreements with regional companies

9. Finances 100% Lump sum, no declaration Financing based on the number of students two years earlier Full time student approx: € 7000,- Apprenticeship system approx: 40% Student budget = 80% participation and 20% for the diploma

10. Accountability Integrated annual report (public) Benchmark Proportional inspection QA system

11. End of the presentation Thank you very much for your attention